2011 Aston Martin DBS - Review

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Billed at its introduction in 2007 as "the ultimate luxury sports car," the Aston Martin DBS has seen few updates over the past four years, but nevertheless manages to hang firmly with the latest collection of high-end hardware on both looks and performance--though it costs as much as three or four times the price. MotorAuthority appreciates the refined elegance of the Aston Martin DBS, and tentatively rates it an overall 9 out of 10.

What the DBS, or nearly any Aston Martin, lacks in outright performance, it more than makes up in charm, style, and beauty. Their unique proportions, attention to detail, rarity, and extremely high-end nature make them unique even among the Ferraris, Porsches, and Lamborghinis of the world, whether in coupe or Volante (convertible) form.

Powered by a 6.0-liter v-12 engine good for 510 horsepower, the 2011 DBS accelerates to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. That's a long shot from supercar status these days, with even run-of-the-mill Corvettes and Mustangs brushing up against the four-second mark, and sub-$70,000 Cadillacs well below. Nevertheless, the Aston V-12 is a special piece of machinery, and one you'll love to uncork for the raucous sound of it as much as the forceful acceleration.

That's not to say the DBS isn't fun to drive. Like any Aston, the DBS is finely tuned to deliver a rewarding compromise between pliability in more normal driving situations and sharp, edgy performance when you feel like picking up the pace. The DBS is neither the lightest nor the smallest sports car on the road, however, and its weight is sure to be noticed.

Refinement, high-quality materials, and high-end electronics are the central theme of the 2011 DBS's cabin. Fine leathers, wood-grain trims, and careful stitching are present everywhere you look. With Aston's highly customizable order and build process, there's a good chance you can outfit your DBS in any way you'd like. Literally.